The rumours are true. Starbucks at the corner of Gerrard and Jones is closing at the end of October.

When this location opened, it was seen as a bellwether for change sweeping the neighbourhood. Now after a five-year run along the up-and-coming strip, the location was unable to reach the revenue needed to stay in business, according to staff. Gains were made with each successive year but not to a level that met targets from corporate headquarters.

With a double-height ceiling, mezzanine and rooftop patio, the Gerrard and Jones store is unique in design amongst typical Starbucks layouts. A local Toronto graffiti artist was commissioned to install coffee-inspired art for the interior and exterior wall. These design features give it a different feel from the standard look and feel of your everyday Starbucks.

In other Starbucks news, staff confirmed the company is planning to move its location inside Canadian Tire at Lakeshore and Leslie to the former Burger King located kitty-corner.